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IRCTC’s Spiritual Tour To South India Covers Key Temples, Jyotirlingas, Find Out More | India News

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Aimed at travellers from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, this nine-day, eight-night tour offers an opportunity to explore sacred sites with convenience and affordability

The pilgrimage route includes Arunachalam, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Thiruvananthapuram, Thanjavur and Tiruchirapalli. (Photo: News18)

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a special Bharat Gaurav train tour – ‘Divya Dakshin Yatra with Jyotirlinga’ — a spiritual journey covering some of South India’s most iconic temples and heritage destinations.

Aimed at travellers from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, this nine-day, eight-night tour offers a unique opportunity to explore sacred sites with convenience and affordability.

The train journey will start from Secunderabad, with multiple boarding options available across key stations such as Kazipet, Warangal, Khammam, Vijayawada, Tenali, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, and Renigunta, ensuring accessibility for passengers across both states.

The pilgrimage route includes several major religious and cultural destinations like Arunachalam (Thiruvannamalai Temple), Rameswaram (one of the twelve Jyotirlingas), Madurai (Meenakshi Temple), Kanyakumari (Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Gandhi Mandapam), Thiruvananthapuram (Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Kovalam Beach), Thanjavur (Brihadeeswara Temple), and Tiruchirapalli (Srirangam Temple).

To cater to various travel preferences and budgets, IRCTC is offering three travel classes:

Economy: Sleeper Class at Rs 14,250 per person

Standard: 3rd AC at Rs 21,900 per person

Comfort: 2nd AC at Rs 28,450 per person

Each package is all-inclusive, covering train travel, vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), AC/non-AC hotel accommodations on a multi-sharing basis, ground transportation, guided sightseeing, travel insurance, and onboard security. However, expenses like personal shopping, monument entry tickets, and optional local excursions are excluded and must be borne by the traveller.

IRCTC’s initiative comes as part of the broader Bharat Gaurav scheme, which promotes cultural and religious tourism through budget-friendly and organised rail packages. The Divya Dakshin Yatra is especially suitable for senior citizens, families, and devotees seeking a spiritually enriching experience without the hassle of planning logistics independently.

With the added advantage of multiple boarding points across the Telugu-speaking region, this package makes it easier for pilgrims from different cities and towns to join the journey.

In a time when spiritual tourism is gaining popularity, IRCTC’s well-structured itinerary offers not just convenience, but also cultural immersion and a sense of national heritage.

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First spiritual tourism roadmap for Isfahan bazaar planned

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TEHRAN — Isfahan Municipality is set to officially unveil the spiritual tourism routes of Isfahan, highlighting saqqakhanehs (traditional places providing water to the passersby), seminaries, and mosques located within the city’s ancient bazaar, said Alireza Massah, who presides over the municipality’s tourism office.

Speaking at a press conference of a cultural event themed “Isfahan, a Narrative of Love and Art” with focus on spiritual tourism, handicrafts and Muharram rituals, he said all the facilities of Cultural Complex of Isfahan Municipality’s District Four have been made available to the “Narrative of Love and Art” exhibition, Mehr news agency reported.

He said, “Our cultural colleagues have done their best to prepare the space in Chahar Bagh Boulevard in recent days.”

Since the exhibition will continue until 22 at nights, the coordination has been made with Isfahan and Suburbs Bus Company for transferring the artisans and citizens until that time, he added.

Pointing to the special potentials of ritual tourism in Isfahan, he said Takht-e Foulad site is one of the important centers of Isfahan’s spiritual and religious tourism.

This site is not only valuable in terms of architecture and history, the carvings on tombstones, the calligraphy lines, and the mystical concepts engraved on the tombstones are themselves a living museum of the religious beliefs of the people of this land, he mentioned.

He gave news of the role of Specialized Office of National and Ritual Arts of Isfahan Municipality in this event, saying: “This office with cooperation of other cultural bodies, will launch stands in Chahar Bagh and also perform special artistic programs in public space. The event is an opportunity to showcase the artistic potentials associated with religious and spiritual rituals.”

Massah also gave news of planning for revival of spiritual tourism in Isfahan’s historical Bazaar, adding that Isfahan Bazar is full of religious spaces, which includes traditional saqqakhanehs, mosques, seminaries and Hosseinieh which are rooted in Muharram history and culture. 

All of them are proper grounds for planning new tourism routes with spiritual approach, he pointed out.

He expressed the hope that these new routes can familiarize domestic and foreign tourists with rarely-seen manifestation of Isfahan cultural heritage, a heritage which has deep ties with Muharram rituals and public beliefs. 

KD 



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Goa Unveils Vibrant Tourism Portfolio at TTF Ahmedabad 2025, Featuring Spiritual Retreats, Adventure Tourism, and Unique Monsoon Experiences

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Friday, July 18, 2025

Goa is all set to be part of the upcoming Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) in Ahmedabad from July 31 to August 2, 2025. The Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar will be the venue of this cross-sectoral event, which provides important networking opportunities for travel industry players, tourism boards and operators to meet and explore domestic and international tourism markets. Goa’s presence at TTF Ahmedabad is important especially for showcasing Goa the destination beyond its popular beaches, an official release stated.

This year’s involvement further attests to Goa’s status as a year-round tourist destination that has something to offer every type of traveller at every time of year. The idea is for the Department to create focus on different types of tourism and sectors so that it will change what the state’s main tourism identity is and appeal to a diverse group of people who aren’t necessarily the same old, same old kind of tourists.

A Fresh Look at Goa’s Multi-Dimensional Tourism Offerings

Goa’s pavilion at the fair will showcase the state’s multi-dimensional tourism profile, breaking away from the traditional image of sun and sand. Goa is positioning itself as a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers, whether they are looking for spiritual renewal, wellness retreats, adventure-filled experiences, or immersive cultural encounters.

Among the key attractions highlighted at the Goa Pavilion will be spiritual tourism, where visitors can explore the state’s rich religious heritage through visits to iconic temples and churches. In addition, wellness and Ayurveda-based experiences will be a central feature of Goa’s offerings, allowing tourists to indulge in rejuvenating treatments that are an integral part of Goan culture.

Another unique aspect that will be showcased is adventure tourism. Goa is becoming increasingly recognized as a hotspot for adventure seekers, offering a variety of activities such as trekking, water sports, and wildlife exploration. The state’s monsoon tourism will also be emphasized, where travelers can enjoy the lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and serene environment that Goa uniquely offers during the rainy season.

Embracing Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Goa’s tourism strategy is evolving to reflect a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. The Department of Tourism will highlight initiatives such as homestay and community-based tourism, which are gaining traction under Goa’s inclusive tourism policy. These programs aim to provide travelers with authentic local experiences while supporting local communities and promoting environmental conservation.

Sustainable tourism is not just a buzzword for Goa; it’s a core principle of the state’s future tourism plans. Goa is becoming increasingly focused on reducing the environmental impact of tourism and ensuring that growth benefits local people and preserves the natural environment.

Experiential Tourism and Cultural Calendar

Goa is not just about its natural beauty; it’s also a treasure trove of cultural experiences. At the Goa Pavilion, visitors will be introduced to the state’s rich cultural calendar. The state hosts a variety of vibrant festivals throughout the year, which are major attractions for experiential travelers. Events such as Sao Joao, Chikhal Kalo, Spirit of Goa, Shigmo, and Carnaval are integral to Goa’s cultural identity. These festivals celebrate local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine, offering a deep dive into the state’s heritage.

For travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences, Goa’s cultural festivals provide the perfect opportunity to engage with the local way of life. Whether it’s the colorful processions during Carnaval or the joyous celebrations of Sao Joao, these events attract visitors looking to experience the true spirit of Goa.

Strengthening Ties with Gujarat and Beyond

The state’s participation in TTF Ahmedabad is of particular significance, as Gujarat is one of Goa’s key domestic source markets. The event offers an opportunity to strengthen engagement with travel trade partners in Gujarat and to attract a wider audience to Goa. With its rich tourism offerings and strategic location, Goa continues to draw significant interest from Gujarat, with many residents choosing Goa as their preferred travel destination for leisure, wellness, and adventure.

Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism for Goa, expressed the state’s excitement about the event: “Our participation at TTF Ahmedabad aligns with Goa’s vision to promote tourism that is immersive, inclusive, and sustainable. We are committed to engaging meaningfully with the travel trade community and highlighting the wide spectrum of experiences that Goa offers across all seasons. Gujarat remains a valuable market, and we look forward to welcoming more travelers who seek depth, culture, and renewal in their journeys.”

The Future of Goa Tourism

Goa continues to evolve as a dynamic and year-round destination, catering to a variety of tourist interests. The Department of Tourism’s presence at TTF Ahmedabad is just one example of how Goa is actively positioning itself as a diverse and sustainable tourism destination. The state’s focus on creating an inclusive environment, promoting responsible tourism, and offering varied cultural and adventure-based experiences is helping to build Goa’s future as a world-class destination.

With year-round tourism offerings, Goa is no longer just a seasonal getaway but a place that welcomes tourists throughout the year. Whether it’s the calming monsoon, the vibrant festivals, or the rejuvenating wellness experiences, Goa offers something for everyone. The future looks promising, as Goa sets its sights on becoming one of India’s top destinations for both domestic and international travelers.

Conclusion: Visit Goa at TTF Ahmedabad 2025

The Goa Pavilion at TTF Ahmedabad 2025 promises to be an exciting destination for travel professionals and visitors alike. Goa’s diverse tourism offerings, commitment to sustainability, and rich cultural experiences make it one of India’s most compelling and evolving destinations. The Department of Tourism invites all interested parties to explore new collaborations and discover why Goa continues to be an attractive choice for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation in equal measure.



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Spiritual Travel

IHCL to Hit 400 Hotels as Sports, Religious Travel Drive Demand

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Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) reported a profitable first quarter Thursday, with stable margins despite headwinds from international flight disruptions and the fallout from the terror attack in Pahalgam and subsequent conflict with Pakistan.

What stood out, however, was the pace of expansion: IHCL is expanding its footprint through new hotel signings, acquisitions, and deeper bets on spiritual and event-driven tourism.

IHCL signed 12 new hotels and opened six during the quarter. It now operates 249 hotels, with another 143 more in its pipeline.

“We are nearing the milestone of a 400-plus hotels portfolio. We remain confident of achieving this milestone during this month itself,” CEO Puneet Chhatwal



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